So how does one party-hop with ease and make sure that one is appropriately clad for the festivities? There is no denying that black gives extra mileage to any garment. Given some interesting details (a bare back, unusual die-cuts, a slightly scandalous slit) there is definitely nothing little about the little black dress. Whether worn as is or festooned with tasteful accessories, you know you’ll be a hit wherever you go.
Though black epitomizes chic, it does not mean that you should be celebrating all season long in the dark. Shades of sultry cream and decadent chocolates add an unexpected sweetness to the season’s rather spicy palette of puce, rust and crimson. Punch colors (think Kool-Aid!) also add a tarty twist on even the most basic of clothing. If you desire to have a look that has one focal point, try not to combine elements that may fight with one another (ex: a metallic fabric overkill; instead, highlight a strong piece by matching it with more neutral pieces). However, any gifted artist may successfully combine several strong pieces with agility. The bottom line is creating a look that is you. An interesting outfit or even the simplest dress on somebody else may not necessarily look right on you. It’s like perfume – a particular scent may smell heavenly on someone’s wrist and smell like day-old fish on yours. Try it out and see if it works with your own unique, dynamic chemistry.
Texture is also a very big deal in creating a beautifully lush look. Feathers, silk, velvet (yes, velvet), wool, crisp cottons and even rugged denim add drama to any look. A look that begs not only to be seen, but to be touched as well. Try to be experimental with today’s new textures. Texture over texture can be quite an interesting combo especially when two opposite textures are combined (ex: a smooth silky blouse over a wooly skirt). Layering is also great in creating a fluid appearance when using light and sensuous fabrics.
Of course, an elegant look is never complete if you don’t have the right face. When choosing cosmetics, keep your skin type and skin tone in mind. It’s fun to experiment with the latest makeup trends. However, do roadtest before appearing in public. A winged eyeliner look, for example, can make one look either seductive or psychotic. Same with colors – check out complementary undertones. Although in theory any color will work if applied sheerly, a color that complements your natural coloring will enhance the true hue of your skin.
Dewy skin is a sign of freshness and vitality. In the past, the dewy look was over-emphasized and taken too literally with grease ball looks. It creates drama in photographs but unfortunately looks, well, unfortunate in real life. A bit of sheen (as in a bit) will work, not to mention keep its effect for a long period of time. Shu Uemura’s water perfect foundation and a dash of Shu’s face powder allow the smooth texture of the skin to show through while muffling the glaring shine that may otherwise make you look like a minola maid. Blush adds a natural flush in an instant. A quick stroke of rose (a sure-fire way to uplift any face) is all you need . However, if you have more time on your hands, try mixing some tones and please blend like a madwoman. For the looks on this spread, a pink blush (try M pink 102) was blended with wine for depth (try M wine 28) and a little brown (try p brown 76) for contour with a tinge of silver (try P silver 91) applied to the tops of the cheekbones for highlight to create a natural and dimensional flush. Eyes should also have some fun. Iridescent powders (try IR rainnbow 900P) make eyes look bright even if you’re having the hangover of your life. Apply at the corner of your eye, under the lashline or on your browbone. A dark shade emphasizes depth. Put on with a light hand to the valleys (the recessed areas) of the eye and along the lashline and blend to create a natural look. A neutral tone is great in balancing your eye makeup; pink works well with Asian skin tones as it combats its inclination to appear sallow (try M pink 102). Colored mascara is also a fun way to add a festive tone to your subtle but dramatic look (check out Shu Uemura’s varied tones in violet, blue and green – promise it’s so cool!). A sexy slick of lipgloss makes the perfect ending (try: Liquid Lip Rouge in Luscious Bisquit and Lip Shimmer in Mocha Fondant).
So discover the new holiday looks that are far from the ordinary and the plain old Christmas cookie cutter!
Explore the treasures of Rhapsody at Unit 6, Timog Arcade corner Scout Torillo, Timog Ave Quezon City; tel. nos. 413-0443. Shu Uemura products are available at their counter at the ground floor of Rustan’s Makati.